Q: I'm 40 years old and have worn my hair the same way for years. I want something different and more artistic, since I work in the art world. My hair is thin, so that's why I use micro loop extensions.

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Sheila's hair with extensions.

This is my natural hair:

Sheila's hair without extensions.

My question is should I go lighter and could I pull off even shorter hair? Thank you for your time, I love reading all the suggestions Bill makes. — Sheila

A: Sheila, thank you so much for your lovely note.

Your great eyes will pop even more with short hair. I have found a short cut for you with a lighter shade for a base colour.

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Mandy Moore with short hair.

The strategically placed peek-a-boo highlights will give depth to your hair and make it appear thicker. Keeping your part predominantly your new base colour will allow for less frequent visits to the salon.

This is another way of wearing this cut.

Keira Knightley with short hair.

You should use a molding paste to separate the hair and deflate the volume.

The peek-a-boo highlights will pop out when sporting this look. Notice the statement earrings? Nothing better than a short haircut to show off large earrings...

The hair extensions you have now, which add length and volume, look really natural and nicely done. You would never know.

If you want to wear your hair long, my suggestion is to go with the same base colour as above, with the peek-a-boo highlights.

Then add some extensions to your hair in the colour that is the lightest shade in your new colour. Cut it to your shoulders and you are good to go:

Olivia Wilde at the 2012 Palm Springs International Film Festival.

This gives you a more edgy style while still keeping it really pretty.

What I would also love to see is your part over the arch of your eyebrow. Showing both brows with a shorter fringe will make your cheekbones and eyes pop even more.

billyxoxo

Bill Angst is one of Canada’s top celebrity hairstylists and the owner of Angst Salon at 240 Queen Street East in Toronto. Call 416-360-5942 to book an appointment.